Pastor Jamal Bryant Clarifies Allegations Regarding 'Target Fast' on Let's Be Clear Podcast
Pastor Jamal Bryant has addressed allegations of receiving money to end the "Target Fast" on his podcast Let's Be Clear. He clarified that neither he nor his team received financial incentives to conclude the campaign, emphasizing that the fast was just one part of a broader movement focused on corporate accountability.
The controversy arose when Bryant publicly announced the end of the fast, causing confusion among supporters who thought the boycott of Target had been abandoned. Despite the backlash, Bryant maintained that there were no financial motives behind the decision and that he personally covered his expenses for the campaign.
The fast, which originated in 2025 as an extension of a boycott organized by civil rights activists, aimed to hold Target accountable for diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Bryant's involvement in launching the 40-day fast during Lent garnered significant participation, with around 300,000 individuals pledging to support Black-owned businesses.
While Target has made progress in fulfilling its commitments, including investments in HBCUs and community organizations, support for Black banks remains unresolved. The controversy surrounding the fast coincides with ongoing scrutiny of Target's diversity efforts following internal leadership changes and criticism of its DEI-related programs.
Despite the formal end of the fast, Bryant emphasized that the larger movement continues, urging participants not to resume shopping at Target stores. He expressed optimism for the future of the campaign, highlighting that the struggle for corporate accountability persists. The best is yet to come.